A tribute on the occasion of the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, and Lal Bahadur Shastri, second Prime Minister of India.
On the solemn and inspiring occasion of the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri, I pay my heartfelt tribute to two great sons of India whose lives, values and public service continue to guide our nation.
Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, devoted his entire life to the principles of truth, non-violence, justice, equality and human dignity. His historic contribution to India's freedom struggle demonstrated the extraordinary power of peaceful resistance and moral courage. Gandhi Ji believed that true freedom was not merely political independence, but also the establishment of a society based on social harmony, communal peace, equality and respect for every human being.
His message of Ahimsa and Satyagraha remains deeply relevant in today's world, where humanity faces conflicts, divisions and growing intolerance. Gandhi Ji taught us that differences must be resolved through dialogue, compassion and mutual respect, and that the weakest and most marginalised sections of society must never be forgotten.
Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji, India's second Prime Minister, will always be remembered for his simplicity, integrity, humility and unwavering commitment to the nation. His inspiring call of “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” recognised the indispensable contribution of our soldiers and farmers to the security, strength and prosperity of India.
Shastri Ji demonstrated that public life is a responsibility, not a privilege. His personal integrity, modest lifestyle and dedication to the welfare of ordinary citizens remain an enduring example for public servants and political leaders.
On this sacred day, we remember Gandhi Ji and Shastri Ji not merely through ceremonies and tributes, but by renewing our commitment to the values they upheld—truth, non-violence, secularism, social justice, equality, democracy, national unity and service to humanity.
Let us work together to build an India where every citizen, irrespective of religion, caste, language, region or economic status, can live with dignity, freedom and equal opportunity.
May the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri continue to inspire our collective journey towards a peaceful, just, inclusive and prosperous India.
My respectful tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri on their birth anniversaries.
Jai Hind!
Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan!
Javed Raza
National President
Loktantrik Janata Dal
Advocate, Supreme Court of India